First Congregational Church

Music Ministry

Music Notes from First Church

It has been a busy fall at First Church. September found the Choir getting back to work and Dick preparing and presenting the opening concert of Music on Main with former Music Director Rod Gisick. The concert, which boasted a record crowd, included some solo piano pieces, a couple of organ solos, including “Rex: The King of Instruments”, a fun introduction to the workings of the organ complete with narration by Rev. Vicki, and several pieces for organ and piano.

October was another busy month, with the Choir (28 voices) providing music for Vicki’s Installation.

In November, we renamed the First Sunday “Pickup” Choir. A contest was held; 14 people suggested a total of 58 possible names and, using a compilation of names suggested by 5 people, the choir is now “officially” called “The Joyful Noises”! This group will appear regularly on the first Sunday of each month.

On November 9th, the First Church Choir will sing “Kyrie Eleison” by Franz Joseph Haydn, arranged by Hal Hopson under the direction of Shawn Trivette; Dick will accompany on the organ.

On Sunday, November 16th music will be provided by “One Journey”; November 23rd the Choir will sing an old-time hymn: “Count Your Blessings”; and November 30th, pianist Tom McClung will provide special piano music.

In December “The Joyful Noises” will provide music on December 7th; the First Church Choir will be featured in a Service of Advent and Christmas Lessons and Carols as part of worship on December 14th and will also sing on the following Sunday.

Be sure to check the Notices and Register for more exciting music plans.

First Church Choir rehearsal schedule for November and December:

Thursday, November 6 – 7:15 – First Church Choir rehearsal
                                   8:00 – Rehearsal for December 14
Thursday, November 13 - 7:15 – Rehearsal for December 14
Thursday, December 11 - 7:15 – Rehearsal for December 14
Thursday, December 18 – 7:15 – Rehearsal for December 21

As always, if you have ideas to share, want to volunteer your talents, or would like to know more about First Church’s music program, feel free to contact me via email rsmatteson@comcast.net or by phone (413)315-3440.

Dick

Thursday rehearsals are generally in the chapel; Sunday rehearsals in the sanctuary.

Contact Dick Matteson with any questions or if you would like to provide music on non-choir Sundays. rsmatteson@comcast.net; phone: 413-315-3440--South Hadley.